Markham defines the teachers of today as "under-empowered participants in a stagnant system designed to broadcast standardized information" (Mind/Shift). Wow. This definition is not exactly the most appealing to someone like me who is pursuing a career in education. Unfortunately the educational system is currently void of a positive reputation.
Despite this dismal definition, Markham states that there is hope. The profession alone provides teachers with an incredible platform to influence and inspire. Markham asserts that their are four things teachers need to address in their classrooms in order to promote transformation in the students going through the current schooling system.
Teachers in this age should:
1. Appreciate the power, beauty and challenge of the present moment
2. Contribute to a global vision
3. Redefine Smart
4. Live the collaborative reality
These four things are incredibly pertinent to today's classroom environment. The world is incredibly collaborative and it is important to have a global vision in order to positively impact society. As a teacher, it is important that I am intentional about advocating for these things. I believe that it is my responsibility to teach my students these four things so that they are able to actively participate in this world.
Markham ,Thom. (2015, February 11). Redefining Teachers with a 21st Century Education 'Story.' Mind/Shift How We Learn. Retrieved from: http://ww2.kqed.org/mindshift/2015/02/11/redefining-teachers-with-a-21st-century-education-story/